Tires were mounted incorrectly, tire pressure was low, extreme camber and curbs were to blame

Changes will be made to the tires before the German GP, but compounds will remain the same

Pirelli will use a Kevlar construction replacing the current steel structure and re-introduce the belt of 2012

As you may have read in the article on the Formula 1 British GP results,
race teams and fans alike all wanted answers for the numerous tire explosions that took place last
weekend. Pirelli has finally announced its reasoning behind the tire failures as three distinct causes:

Rear tires were mounted incorrectly: It seems for the several drivers that experienced tire failures
mounted the right rear tire on the left or vice versa. Because these tires have an asymmetric structure,
they are not designed to be interchangeable. And because the internal and external sides of the tire are
designed to deal with specific loads, switching sides causes certain parts of the track to become harsher
on tires than normal.

Low tire pressures: Tire pressures were either excessively low or lower than the indicated amount by
Pirelli. This results in more stress the tire has to endure on track.

Extreme Cambers and high curbs: A particular turn at Silverstone (turn 4), was the cause of most of the
tire failures at the race. Not only because it is a high speed corner, but also the angle of the curb itself is
extreme and could cause tire damage, and in the case of several drivers, did.

And while these failures did occur, Pirelli underscores the importance that the 2013 tire range does not
compromise driver safety if used in the correct manner. No driver was injured in any way during the
British GP, but drivers were forced to retire as a result of the failures. To ensure something like this does
not happen at the upcoming German GP, Pirelli will use a Kevlar construction replacing the current steel
structure and re-introduce the belt of 2012. This is to ensure the most stability and road holding. While
the structure will be replaced, the compounds will remain the same throughout the 2013 season.

Following the announcement of the cause of the tire failure, Paul Hembry, Pirelli Motorsport Director
commented, "Contrary to the impression that some people have formed, I would like to underline the
collaboration and support that we are receiving from the teams, drivers, FIA and FOM. In no way are we
intending to create arguments or attack anybody. We have taken our responsibilities upon ourselves as
our press release indicates. But not having full control over all the elements that impact on the use of
the tires, we need everybody's contribution. With regard to this, we are receiving the full support of all
the parties involved, for which we are very grateful."